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Clacton Library Redevelopment gets the go ahead

September 01, 2025

We are excited to learn that redevelopment plans to transform Clacton Library have been approved by Essex County Council.

The approved plans were submitted in November 2024 by our long-term client Essex Housing Development and were approved by the council’s planning committee on Wednesday 20th August 2025.

As a key part of Clacton’s regeneration strategy, the existing Library site will now be transformed, visually improving the local area and providing a modern, multi-functional facility including an Adult Community Learning (ACL) centre, local registration services, and a dedicated space for the Essex University’s newly established Centre for Coastal Communities.

The redevelopment is part of a wider programme of regeneration projects in Clacton Town Centre.

SUPPORTING THE PLANNING APPLICATION

Create’s MEP Building Services and Sustainability teams have been working on the scheme since early last year, after appointment via competitive tender. The project team comprises Saunders Architecture + Urban Design, Oxbury Chartered Surveyors, Horwitz Associates, Richard Jackson, and Ingleton Wood.

Our work to date includes:

  • Technical Reports and Specifications

Produced detailed documentation to guide design decisions and ensure compliance with regulations.

  • Energy Modelling

Modelled energy performance to support sustainability objectives and improve operational efficiency.

  • Daylight/Sunlight Assessment

Assessed daylight and sunlight levels to ensure compliance with design standards and enhance internal spaces.

  • Service Route Layouts

Developed coordinated layouts for mechanical and electrical services to maximise space and simplify installation.

  • External Lighting Design

Designed efficient, compliant lighting schemes to enhance external areas while minimising energy use and light spill.

  • Riser and Plantroom Sizing

Calculated and optimised riser and plantroom dimensions to accommodate all building services effectively.

  • Heating and Cooling Load Calculations

Assessed thermal loads to determine system capacities and maintain comfortable internal conditions year-round.

A modern, two-story library and learning center with large windows and a red staircase visible inside; people are walking on the sidewalk in front.
SAUNDERS Architecture + Urban Design

LOOKING FORWARD

We are now looking forward to the next stage of design and providing continued support once the design and build contractor has been appointed later this year.

“This redevelopment will play a vital role in regenerating this part of Clacton and creating a key gateway into the town centre. We’re delighted to see the proposals secure planning approval. Our focus now is on advancing the technical design and supporting the pre-construction stage as Essex Housing moves forward with tendering for a contractor to deliver the scheme.”

Alan DeMerquis, Technical Director (MEP Building Services)